Under Control
467 Words
Isabelle’s second day at Valenhurst began with intense fatigue and the storm still raging inside her.
The effect of that repressed encounter in Dominic’s office was still on her skin.
The deciphering warmth in Ezra’s gaze had seeped into her mind.
She left the hotel without having breakfast and arrived at her office quickly.
There was a meeting notification in her morning email:
> Subject: Global Operations Introduction – Structural Integrity Briefing
Time: 08:30
Participants: Dr. Dominic Blackwell, Dr. Ezra Blackwell, Isabelle Alvarez
Location: 14th Floor – Executive Floor Meeting Room
Her heart started to beat faster.
Between the two of them… alone.
08:28 a.m.
Isabelle fixed the sides of her hair with her hands.
She still hadn’t recovered from yesterday’s jet lag and fatigue.
But work was work.
To wake herself up in the morning, she had taken a cold shower, then applied bold dark makeup. She wore a tight yet elegant dress in grey tones and black patent leather high-heeled stilettos underneath.
Today, she had left her long wavy hair down.
On the upper part of her chest, she had pinned a diamond sun brooch that her family had gifted her for her birthday, because she loved the sea and the sun.
The sound of her heels echoed in the corridor.
When she opened the door… the first to look at her was Ezra.
He was caught between admiration and astonishment.
Isabelle looked unbelievably sexy and beautiful.
When Dominic raised his head from the documents, he was almost struck dumb by the beauty, sexiness, and allure of the woman standing before him.
But unlike Ezra, he never let this admiration show on his face.
— “Isabelle,” said Ezra.
— “Good morning,” said Isabelle, but her voice was softer.
— “Come, sit. Did you get your coffee?”
— “Ah, not yet…”
Ezra pointed to the thermos on the table.
— “Then have some with us. I prepared this blend myself, it’s special.”
Dominic glanced sideways.
— “Again with your blends that stimulate the mind and relax the body, Ezra?”
Ezra chuckled.
— “You can’t deny they’re more effective on women.”
This time, Dominic turned to Isabelle.
— “Today will be intense, Isabelle. Since you joined us a bit later, we need to integrate you quickly so that the operations don’t fall behind. During this period, Ezra and I have slightly reduced our roles at the hospital — we will only attend the most critical surgeries.
And by the way, be careful! Ezra’s coffees sometimes awaken the mind more than necessary.”
The subtext was clear:
“If your mind opens too much… you become defenseless.”
Isabelle swallowed, but lightly wet her lips.
— “I guess I’m ready to try"
- Writer
